Duolingo English Test Explained- Complete Study Guide | MetaApply IE

DET or the Duolingo English Test is a widely accepted online English proficiency exam for students planning to pursue higher education abroad. It is recognised by thousands of universities and institutions across countries such as the USA, Canada, the UK, Australia, and across Europe. Known for its convenience and flexibility, the test can be taken from home and delivers results quickly, making it a popular choice among international applicants.

The exam evaluates a candidate’s English language skills through an adaptive format that assesses reading, writing, listening, and speaking abilities. The test includes a combination of question types along with a video interview and writing sample, which are shared with universities. Duolingo scores range from 10 to 160, with required scores varying based on the university, course, and overall applicant profile.

Before registering for the Duolingo English Test, students often have several questions regarding the exam pattern, preparation strategy, scoring system, and acceptance criteria. Today, in this blog, we aim to address the most frequently asked questions to help you understand the test clearly and prepare with confidence. So, without further ado, let’s explore the key questions students commonly have before taking the Duolingo English Test.

What is Duolingo English Test?

The Duolingo English Test is an online English Proficiency Exam designed for students applying to universities abroad. It evaluates a candidate’s ability to read, write, listen, and speak English through an adaptive testing format. The test can be taken from home using a computer and a stable internet connection. With faster results and wide global acceptance, it has become a convenient alternative to traditional English language exams.

What is the full form of DET?

DET stands for the Duolingo English Test. It is a standardised English language assessment developed by Duolingo to measure the real-world English skills of non-native speakers. The test is widely accepted by universities, colleges, and institutions across multiple countries. Known for its flexibility and affordability, DET allows students to demonstrate their language proficiency without the need to visit a test centre, making it a preferred option for many international applicants.

What is the Duolingo English Test pattern?

The Duolingo English Test follows an adaptive format that adjusts question difficulty based on the candidate’s responses. The test lasts for approximately one hour and assesses reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills through various question types. It also includes a video interview and a writing sample, which are sent to universities along with the score. The adaptive nature ensures a precise and efficient evaluation.

What is the Duolingo English Test fee in India?

In India, the Duolingo English Test fee is significantly lower than most other English proficiency exams. Candidates generally pay around $59, which converts approximately ₹4800-5000, depending on exchange rates. This fee covers one test attempt, with results shared with selected universities at no additional cost. The affordable pricing makes DET an attractive option for students planning to Study Abroad on a budget.

Is Duolingo English Test free?

No, the Duolingo English Test is not free and requires candidates to pay a registration fee to take the exam. However, it is one of the most cost-effective English proficiency tests available today. Once the fee is paid, candidates can send their scores to an unlimited number of universities without any extra charges. This makes the test economical and accessible compared to other language exams.

What is Duolingo English Test validity?

The Duolingo English Test score is valid for two years from the date the results are announced. During this period, candidates can use their scores to Apply to Universities and institutions that accept DET. Once the validity period expires, the score is no longer considered official, and students must retake the test if required. Most universities clearly mention score validity requirements during the admission process.

What is Duolingo English Test highest score?

The highest possible score in the Duolingo English Test is 160. Scores are reported in increments of five and reflect a candidate’s overall English language proficiency. Higher scores indicate advanced academic-level English skills, which are often required by competitive universities. However, the minimum score requirements differs for each institution and programme, so candidates should always check university-specific eligibility criteria before applying.

How to prepare for Duolingo English Test?

Preparing for the Duolingo English Test required focused practice and familiarity with the test format:

• Understand the adaptive test structure
• Practice reading, writing, listening, and speaking regularly
• Take official Duolingo practice test
• Improve vocabulary and sentence structure
• Practice timed questions for better speed and accuracy

Is Duolingo English Test hard?

The Duolingo English Test is generally considered moderately challenging, but its difficulty depends on a candidate’s English proficiency. Since the test is adaptive, questions become harder or easier based on performance. Students with strong foundational English skills often find the test manageable, while others may need additional preparation. Familiarity with the test pattern and consistent practice can significantly reduce difficulty and boost confidence.

Can I take Duolingo English Test at home?

Yes, the Duolingo English Test can be taken entirely from home. Candidates only need a computer with a camera, microphone, stable internet connection, and a quiet room. The test is monitored using AI-based proctoring to ensure fairness. This at-home testing option removes the need to travel to a test centre and offers flexibility, especially for students with busy schedules.

Is there any Duolingo English Test retake available?

Yes, candidates can retake the Duolingo English Test if they are not satisfied with their score. There is no limit on the number of attempts, but each attempt requires paying the test fee again. It is recommended to prepare thoroughly before retaking the test, as improving your score may take focused practice. Universities usually consider the most recent score, so retaking the test can help students meet specific admission requirements.

Which is easier Duolingo English Test or TOEFL?

The Duolingo English Test is generally considered easier than TOEFL for many students because it is shorter, adaptive, and can be taken from home. TOEFL is longer, with more formal academic reading, listening, speaking, and writing tasks, ad often required advanced preparation. DET focused on practical English skills with an adaptive question format, while TOEFL tests traditional academic language proficiency. Ultimately, the ease depends on the candidate’s comfort with online, adaptive testing versus structured exams.

Which is easier Duolingo English Test or IELTS?

Many students find the Duolingo English Test easier than IELTS due to its online format and adaptive design. IELTS is longer, involves strict timing, and has separate listening, reading, writing, and speaking modules in a traditional exam setting. DET allows flexible pacing and can be taken from home. However, candidates familiar with structured testing find IELTS predictable. The perceived difficulty depends on personal strengths, with DET favouring adaptive test-takers and IELTS favouring those comfortable with face-to-face assessments.

Is Duolingo easier than IELTS?

Yes, in most cases, the Duolingo English Test is considered easier than IELTS. It is shorter, adaptive, and can be completed at home without in-person supervision. IELTS requires managing four separate modules under strict timing, including a live speaking test. DET focuses on practical English skills and adjusts difficulty based on answers, reducing stress for many students. However, candidates who excel in traditional exam formats may still prefer IELTS. Preparation and familiarity with the test format play a key role.

Is it hard to pass Duolingo English Test?

Passing the Duolingo English Test is generally manageable with preparation, as there is no fixed “pass/fail” score; universities set the required minimum score. The adaptive format ensures questions match your proficiency level, making it accessible for most candidates. Strong reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills, combined with practice, usually lead to good results. While challenging for beginners, consistent preparation, familiarity with test types, and timed practice can make achieving the required score straightforward and less stressful.

Is 75 a good score in Duolingo English Test?

A score of 75 on the Duolingo English Test is considered basic to lower-intermediate and may be accepted by only a limited number of universities or pathway programmes. Most institutions usually require scores between 90 and 120, depending on the course and country. While 75 may not meet the requirements of top universities, it can still be useful for foundation courses or conditional offers. Always check specific university score requirements before applying.

What if I fail the Duolingo test?

The Duolingo English Test does not have a traditional pass or fail outcome. Universities decide whether your score meets their language requirements or not. If your score is lower than required, you can retake the test after further preparation. Analysing weak areas such as speaking speed, vocabulary, or sentence structure can help improve results. Since there is no penalty for retaking apart from the test fee, students can attempt the test again with better preparation.

How many attempts for Duolingo English Test?

There is no fixed limit on the total number of times you can take the Duolingo English Test. However, candidates are allowed to take the test up to three times within a 30-day period. Each attempt requires a new registration and payment of the test fee. This flexibility allows students to improve their score gradually and reattempt the exam until they achieve the score required by their chosen universities.

Is Duolingo retake free?

No, a Duolingo retake is not free. Each time you attempt the Duolingo English Test, you must pay the full exam fee again. The payment covers one complete test attempt and score reporting. However, compared to other English proficiency exams, Duolingo remains more affordable overall. To avoid multiple paid attempts, it is recommended that candidates practise using official sample tests and prepare thoroughly before scheduling a retake.

What is the fees of Duolingo exam 2026?

For 2026, the Duolingo English Test fee is expected to remain at $59 per attempt. In India, this usually amounts to approximately ₹4800-5000, depending on the exchange rate. The fee includes the test, results, and the ability to send scores to an unlimited number of universities at no additional cost. This makes Duolingo one of the most economical English proficiency tests for studying abroad.

Can I use a dictionary during the Duolingo test?

No, using a dictionary, notes, mobile phone, or any external assistance during the Duolingo English Test is strictly prohibited. The test is monitored through AI-based proctoring, along with camera and screen recording, to ensure fairness. Any attempt to use unauthorised tools can lead to test termination or invalidation of scores. Candidates are expected to rely solely on their existing English language skills throughout the examination.

Ace Your Duolingo English Test with MetaApply TestPrep

Now that you have understand the Duolingo English Test and what it takes to perform well, the next step is choosing the right preparation support. This is where MetaApply TestPrep helps you prepare smartly and confidently. We recognise that every student has different strengths, learning styles, university requirements, and score expectations. That’s why our Duolingo English Test preparation is customised, practical, and result oriented.

At MetaApply TestPrep, we provide affordable and flexible Duolingo Coaching designed to fit your routine. You can select weekday or weekend classes, join small-group sessions or opt for personalised one-on-one training, and choose between online or offline learning based on what works best for you.

With experienced trainers, targeted practice, mock tests, and continuous feedback, we help you improve your speaking, writing, reading, and listening skills effectively. Our focused approach ensures you feel confident and test-ready. So, what are you waiting for? Get started with MetaApply TestPrep today today and move one step closer to achieving your Duolingo English Test Score goals.